FERTILIZER MIXING PLANT FEASIBILITY STUDY

Emphasis was to be placed on an analysis of existing and potential fertilizer demand among small farmers. This document presents that study. After an overview of the Bolivian climate, soil, and crop production, current exploitation of Bolivia"s major fertilizer raw materials are described. Next, the nation"s infrastructure and its influence upon the farming sector are outlined, followed by a discussion of the present lack of an indigenous fertilizer industry and of future fertilizer manufacturing plans. Succeeding sections treat community development programs, extension services, current fertilizer patterns and consumption, the lack of soil testing facilities, the marketing and distribution of fertilizer, and the economic returns resulting from fertilizer. The IRDC draws several conclusions from their findings. The Bolivian campesino is well informed in the use and economic benefits of fertilizers. The potato growers in altiplano and Cochabamba are particularly sophisticated in their approach to crop fertilization. High fertilizer prices can be attributed to the pricing policies of the dealers, the imbalance of supply and demand, the lack of integrated government fertilizer programs and of importation controls on dealers, and the absence of preferential treatment for fertilizer imports. The resulting high prices and unavailability of fertilizer has inhibited demand. Costs can be decreased by employing money-saving business tactics and negotiation methods when importing fertilizer. An integrated agricultural program through a central agency would also be beneficial. The IFDC recommends a 6-phase program which moves from the importation of bagged fertilizers into a mixed system of bulk handling, blending, and bagging with future incorporation of indigenously produced fertilizers. Within this system, good business practices are essential. Tables and maps are presented throughout this document. A bibliography of 52 English and Spanish written sources (1967-78) is included.